CYA (College Year in Athens) is a non-profit educational institution that has been acting as a cultural and educational bridge between the U.S. and Greece for over half a century. They aim to help students become global citizens who understand and appreciate other cultures.
Established in 1962, CYA was the first study abroad program in Greece for English-speaking undergraduates. They offer academically outstanding semester and academic year study abroad programs that embrace the vibrant experience of day-to-day contact with the people, institutions, monuments, and landscapes of Greece and the Mediterranean. All their programs are delivered in English at the Athens-based International Center for Hellenic and Mediterranean Studies (DIKEMES), located next to the Kallimarmaro (Marble) Stadium and the National Gardens in the heart of the city.
Their program boasts an extensive range of academically outstanding courses and unique learning opportunities. Spanning a wide range of disciplines from ancient to contemporary studies, the curriculum is enriched by hands-on learning opportunities and on-site classes. CYA is dedicated to fostering an engagement with Greece which encourages personal discovery, growth, and cross-cultural sensitivity. Their ultimate goal is for you to return home academically inspired, intellectually stimulated, and with a passionate commitment to the furtherance of international and intercultural understanding.
Student Arrival & Check-In: September 1
Orientation: September 2-3
Classes Begin: September 8
Final Exams: December 15-18
End of Semester: December 19
Move-Out: December 20 by noon
Student Arrival & Check-In: January 20
Orientation: January 21-22
Classes Begin: January 27
Final Exams: May 12-15
End of Semester: May 16
Move-Out: May 17 by noon
All study abroad students must plan to stay until the end of the exam period, as they cannot arrange to take exams at a time other than the one assigned for the class. See the Student Contract for the policy.
You may consult the full academic calendar which includes the dates for required field study excursions here: https://cyathens.org/academic-calendar/
CYA Center
You will purchase a flight to Athens from your "home airport" - wherever that may be! Once you land, we recommend using the CYA charter bus service that will take you to your apartment. This costs approximately 30 Euro and you should have cash ready to pay upon arrival.
Renowned for both its ancient history and modern culture, Athens is home to some of the most important monuments, museums, and ancient sites, as well as a thriving contemporary art and music scene.
Galleries, theaters, and live music venues are found in every neighborhood and often host shows and performances by exciting artists from all over the world.
The city is also known for its abundance of charming cafés and restaurants (Athens is home to five Michelin starred restaurants!), where you are encouraged to take your time enjoying the company of friends.
Pangrati, where CYA is located, is known for its student vibe, evident in the abundance of great cafés and restaurants within a half-mile radius of the Academic Center. Pangrati is also home to a Laiki, or weekly farmer's market.
Athens is close to many great beaches in the southern suburbs, but there is also easy access to the port, where you can take a ferry to nearby islands for day trips or weekend excursions.